DECONTAMINATE BEFORE REUSE

HOW TO DECONTAMINATE USED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS?

Washer Steriliser

The washer-sterilizer operates much the same as the steam
sterilizer.
The washer-sterilizer sends large amounts of soapy
water over the instruments.
Steam under pressure and air are then injected into the water, which activates the water significantly.
As the water is drained from the chamber, tissue
debris and scum are filtered off and steam fills the entire
chamber.
The temperature is then maintained at 270oF for 3
minutes.
Near the completion of the cycle, the steam is released
through the exhaust system.

Ultrasonic Cleaner

Following processing in the washer-sterilizer, all instruments
should be placed in the ultrasonic cleaner.
This process further removes particles and debris through a process called cavitation.
During cavitation, high frequency sound waves are generated
through a water bath in which the instruments are placed along
with a neutral to slightly alkaline detergent.
Cavitation explode inwardly (implosion), and this causes their release from the surface of the instrument.
Following cavitation, instruments are rinsed thoroughly and dried.

If the equipment mentioned is not available hand washing in running
Water is the alternative. Followed by detergent and hand brushing the
Instruments.

WHAT ARE THE DISPOSABLE MEDICAL WASTE?

The operation of a single surgical OT generates a large amount
of medical waste.

Among these are :

* gloves
* gowns
* backtable covers
* patient drapes
* needles and other sharps
* body fluids and secretions
* and other items that must be disposed of.

The types of regulated waste from health care facilities.

* These are radioactive waste, which is regulated by the
Nuclear Regulation Agency
* Hazardous chemical waste, which is regulated by environmental
protection agency
* The third type is potential infective waste, which, for
the purpose of this text will be referred to as regulated
medical waste these are all the items used in an operative procedure and
have been listed above.
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